Microsoft word - active travel - annapurna ghorepani trek_2013_final.doc

ITINERARY
Day 1 – Kathmandu (1360m)
You will be greeted at Kathmandu airport and beautiful part of the walk, as your trail crosses over transferred to your well located hotel. After checking streams and passes small waterfalls under the into your room there will be some free time before canopy of the forest. There are a few teahouses at your trek leader gives a detailed briefing on the Baisi Kharkha providing welcome drinks and a place programme ahead. In the evening your trek leader to rest. There are stupendous views of Annapurna II will make some restaurant suggestions for dinner. (7937m), Annapurna III (7555m), Annapurna IV Day 2 – Kathmandu (1360m)
Machhapuchhare (6993m) and Lamjung Himal Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu today. Visit (6931m) along the way and you reach your Bodhnath Stupa - the main Buddhist temple in the overnight objective at Tadapani. The village is city. Then head to the Hindu temple complex at perfactly situated to catch some wonderful sunset Pashupatinath, located on the banks of the holy Bagmati River. The afternoon is free for further sightseeing or maybe some shopping in Thamel, the Day 6: Deurali (2980m)
main tourist area of the city. Late this afternoon you After enjoying the sunrise you initially descend to a will be provided with your sleeping bag, high altitude small stream and then begin a series of ascents and trek jacket and kitbag for use on trek. Your leader descents through rhododendron forest that is will also update you with plans for the following day. particularly spectacular during March and April when the trees are in flower. You will reach Bhantanti, a Day 3 – Shyauli Bazaar (1340m)
group of small hotels, for an early lunch before Transfer to the airtport and fly to Pokhara, with a crossing a series of small streams and continuing to flight time of about 30 minutes. There are climb through forest to reach the open ridges at spectacular views of the main Himalayan chain to Deurali (2980m). Here you halt for the day, enjoying the north during. After arriving in Pokhara you are fantastic panoramic views of the Annapurna and transferred by road (private bus) to the starting Dhaulagiri ranges if conditions are clear. You should point of the trek at Naya Phul, which you should not miss the opportunity to see the spectacular reach in the early afternoon. The first day’s walk is sunset and sunrise views from the hill behind our quite easy, following sub-tropical terrain along the lodge. This is a highlight of the trip and it is really Modi Khola through Birethanti to your lodge at worthwhile making the effort of going in both the Shyauli Bazaar with super views of Machhapuchhare evening and morning as both times offer a different perspective. If you do ascend for the sunset, do Day 4 – Upper Ghandruk (1990m)
From Shyauli you begin your ascent to Ghandruk. Day 7 – Ulleri (1960m)
The trail steepens and continues to climb passing From Deurali we ascend onto a ridgeline, where through terraced fields and small settlements to there are great views of the Dhaulagiri massif, Kimche. From here the trail again climbs steadily before descending to Ghorepani. Here we begin our then traverses up the valley to the village of descent through beautiful rhododendron forest to Ghandruk, which you reach in the mid afternoon. Nangethanti where we stop for lunch. In the Ghandruk is home to the ethnic Gurung group. From afternoon you continue trekking through the forest your lodge at Upper Ghandruk you have spectacular to arrive at Ulleri a few hours later. After settling into views of Annapurna South (7219m), Hiunchuli the lodge there is plenty of time to explore this Day 5 – Tadapani (2450m)
Day 8 – Pokhara (850m)
We leave the village of Ghandruk behind to enter You make an early start to get the most out of the oak and rhododendron forest. This is a particularly day. From the lodge at Ulleri there is a very steep descent of over 500 metres on a stone staircase to Day 10 – Kathmandu (1360m)
the Bhurungdi Khola River where you cross a small After breakfast you are transferred out to Pokhara suspension bridge to reach the village of Tirkedunga. airport for the 30 minute return flight to Kathmandu. You continue on a more gentle gradient to the village The views are awesome as you fly past the 8000m of Birethanti, on the banks of the Modi Khola. Here peak of Manaslu. You are met at the airport and you stop for lunch before crossing the new bridge to transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for the east bank. You then follow the river back to Naya shopping or further sightseeing. Enjoy a final Phul. After saying farewell to your porter/s you are evening out tonight. Your guide can give you some transferred by private vehicle back to your hotel in Pokhara. The remainder of the day is free to relax in Day 11 – Kathmandu (1360m)
After breakfast you are transferred to the airport for Day 9 - Free day in Pokhara (850m)
your onward flight. Room checkout time is 11.00am. There is much to see and do in Pokhara. A popular If you wish, or need, to stay longer we can arrange activity is to hire a canoe and go for a paddle on the an extra night’s accommodation at the time of still waters of Phewa Lake. If it's a clear day, the views from the mirror-like surface of the lake, north towards the main Annapurna Range are superb. Included:
Another popular activity is to take a short boat ride Experienced trek leader and porter/s. Hotel across the lake and walk up to the large Pagoda that accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara and overlooks the town, also offering spectactular views. lodge accommodation on trek. Trek Permits. The Mountaineering Musuem is worth a look and Sightseeing in Kathmandu. Meals as indicated. your guide will be able to give you directions to get there. Otherwise, relax in the cafes, catch up on the Not Included:
your emails in the internet cafes that are dotted Other meals in Kathmandu. Meals on trek, lunch and dinner in Chitwan. Crew tips (allow approx. $5 per trekking day). Items of a personal nature, such as

TREKKING LODGES – WHAT TO EXPECT
The lodges on this trek provide comfortable accommodation in twin-share rooms. Toilet facilities are shared and most have asian style squat toilets. All lodges can provide hot showers and a battery charging service for a small extra fee. All lodges have a comfortable dining room with heaters. Meals are nutritious with plenty of choice but the availability of fresh meat and fruit is variable. Every day varies, according to the route that has been planned and the terrain you will be walking through. Typically, you can expect to leave around 0800, although some days may require an earlier start; your private guide will keep you fully informed so that you know what is happening each day. The lunch break is generally around midday; this allows time to rest as well as giving the staff time for a break. The afternoon walk generally finishes around 1600-1630, so there’s time to explore the village in which you are staying. Breakfast is included in Kathmandu. While trekking we offer you the option of having meals included. If not, there are plenty of places where you can buy food along the way. Some people prefer an ‘all-inclusive’ price; others prefer the flexibility of buying their own meals. At the time of booking you will have made this choice. If you have bought the ‘no meals’ package, only breakfast in Kathmandu is included. If you have bought the meal
package, all meals are inclued on trek.

Annapurna Ghorepani – Information Dossier
We have prepared this information dossier to help you prepare for your trip in Nepal. If you need any
further information please do not hesitate to contact us.
BEFORE YOU LEAVE HOME
Visa Information
All nationalities require a visa for Nepal. These can be purchased upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport for
$US40 and will be valid for 30 days. It is better to have $US cash to the exact amount and one passport
photo.
Insurance
You must have comprehensive travel insurance that will include mountaineering with ropes and ice axe,
crampons and rescue by helicopter, if required. Please bring along a copy of your policy so that the Tour
Leader can record your insurance details.
In the event of helicopter evacuation you will be billed for the cost and required to pay prior to departing
Kathmandu. – We will supply all necessary supporting documentation etc to enable you to make a claim
on your insurance policy but the primary obligation for payment rests with the passenger.

GENERAL INFORMATION
Electricity
The electricity supply in Nepal is rated at 220 volts, and appliances requiring 240 volts will work normally.
If you bring electrical appliances you should also bring an international adaptor. Round two-pin plugs are
the most common types in the region. Adaptors should be purchased prior to departure.
Telephone
Telephone calls, especially international ones, can be very expensive when made from a hotel. We
suggest you check the price first. If you have a mobile phone it should be a relatively simple procedure to
arrange ‘global roaming’ with your service provider; however, charges are generally very high so be sure
to reseacrh this option thoroughly. Phone calls made from public telephone offices are generally your
cheapest option.

MEDICAL MATTERS
We strongly recommend you visit your doctor or Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre Clinic
(TMVC) to discuss health requirements for your trip.
They will advise you regarding the appropriate inoculations. In some places anti-malarial medication may
also be required. Some vaccines need to be administered a few weeks before departure so allow your
self plenty of time. Obtain a certificate of vaccination and carry this with you on this trip.
A dental check up is also highly recommended.

Personal Medical Kit
Our Nepalese trekking partners provide a comprehensive First-Aid Kit on the trek. However, we
recommend that you carry a small personal medical kit for managing common minor ailments such as
colds, diarrhoea, blisters, sore throats etc. Travellers who take regular medication should take an
appropriate supply. Your doctor can also advise you on pills and medications to take with you -
antibiotics such as Bactrim, Amoxil or Neosprin for cuts, etc.
Consider the following items:
Foot Powder
Anti-spasmodics Sinutabs

Foot Powder
Not just talc powder; look for specialised powders with anti-fungal properties.

Blister packs, “moleskin” or similar
Wear dressing strips as a preventative for blisters. Put them on any "hot spots" that you feel developing,
or where you've had trouble in the past.
Band-aids
A few band-aids and a few inches of medium-width elastoplast-type dressing strip.

Eye Wash/Drops
It is often dusty, especially but limited to the Everest region. Eye drops, and Brolene antibiotic cream for
conjunctivitis are also worth considering.

Cold And Flu Tablets
It is not that uncommon to get a cold; the effect of travelling, airline flights, changes in climate, changes
in temperature and altitude all contribute.

Throat Lozenges
A useful item particularly at high altitudes. Can be handy if you develop a cough, or if it's dusty. (On high
altitude treks above 4,000m you should avoid taking cough mixtures/syrups as these may affect
respiration rates and mask symptoms of altitude sickness.)

Sinutabs
Sinus infections are not uncommon.
Anti-Diarrhoea Tablets
Often, with mild symptoms the answer is to let nature take its course without taking any medications. A
reduced food intake for 24 hours is usually enough to solve the problem. Your doctor may suggest
"Immodium" for traveller's diarrhoea.
Antibiotic Tablets
For the treatment of throat and chest infections etc. Please discuss with your doctor.

Indigestion Tablets
Eating foods - especially more spicy types - to which you are not accustomed may sometimes cause
indigestion. A few Mylanta tablets or Quick-Eze can be helpful.
Laxatives
Sometimes travel, unaccustomed exertion on trek, or different foods will slow the system down.

Pain Relievers
A mild pain reliever such as Panadol/Disprin. A stronger preparation such as Panadeine or Aspalgin
may be considered for any more significant problems. However, please note that any of these stronger
pain killers should only be considered after full consultation with you trek leader as there is a danger that
they may mask symptoms of altitude sickness at heights greater than 3,000m/10,000ft. In addition,
sleeping pills, tranquillisers and narcotic-based pain relievers can cause considerable problems at high
altitudes because they can decrease the breathing rate.
Small Scissors
Useful for cutting moleskin, fingernails, etc. If taking a pen-knife, get one with small scissors attached.
Always pack these in your check in luggage, and not your ‘carry on’ bags prior to your flight.

Antiseptic Cream
Neosprin, Betadine for broken blisters, cuts, scratches, etc. Medi-cream or Savlon etc. for rashes, itches,
small burns. Eurax or Stingo for itches, stinging nettles.

Motion Sickness Tablets
A straight section of road in any of the areas leading to or from our treks is a rarity. If you are prone to
motion sickness, bring travel sickness tablets. Over the counter Travelcalm works well we have found.
We have also had good reports about the efficacy of "Sea-Band" wristbands in reducing/preventing
motion sickness. They can be purchased at most chemists and airports. Domestic flights are usually
fairly smooth, but turbulence is sometimes encountered.

Knee Support
Some people find it helpful to bring a knee support and anti-inflammatory ointment in case of strains.
This is particularly important if you have a history of minor knee problems.
Diarrhoea
Stomach upsets are not uncommon (usually a 24 - 48 hour 'bug') and this may cause diarrhoea, leading
to dehydration. Should you develop a stomach upset you should eat only in moderation and drink plenty
of fluids. It is a good idea to carry a couple of sachets of rehydrants with you (such as Gastrolite). We
also suggest that you carry one of the common anti-diarrhoea tablets such as Imodium.
Water
We highly recommend that you drink bottled water or boiled water. Do not clean your teeth with tap
water. Bottled water is widely available in Kathmandu and Pokhara and boiled water is readily available
at the lodges along the trail.
MONEY AND EXPENSES
Currency
The currency unit of Nepal is the Nepalese rupee (NR).
Approximate exchange rates: US$1 = 85 Rupees – at February 2013.
You will not be able to exchange Nepalese rupees outside of Nepal, so you should aim to take as little
with you as possible on departure.
Travellers Cheques and Credit Cards
Money should be carried in cash and bring your debit/credit cards. For ease of exchange, these should
be in either Australian or US Dollars.

Credit Cards
Major credit cards are accepted in many larger shops and businesses in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
However, it is best to pay restaurants and shops in cash rupees.
Automatic Teller Machines
There are a number of ATM’s in Kathmandu.
Exchange Facilities
Hotels and exchange centres are the best place to change money. Retain your Exchange Receipt from
every transaction, as you are allowed to convert Nepalese Rupees back into foreign currency - usually
$US - when you leave Nepal, up to a maximum of 15% of the total amount you have changed into
Rupees.
Cash
We recommend you carry your cash in AUD or US dollars. This is the most widely accepted currency.
Bring a variety of denominations, including some smaller bills and ensure that all notes are in good
condition. Notes that are tattered or torn are sometimes not accepted. Payment for goods or services is
required in Nepalese rupees; some shops may accept hard currency notes, but will provide change in
rupees.
How Much Money?
Your essential expenses are relatively small, as the majority of costs are included in the tour price. It is
better to come with more than you would expect to spend, and to end the trip with a surplus, rather than
to be caught short.
Kathmandu Expenses
You will need money to cover those meals not included in the itinerary (a good meal, excluding drinks,
will cost anything from US$8 to US$15), drinks, perhaps the occasional taxi fare, plus small purchases
such as soft drinks, mineral water, sweets, beer, snacks, chocolate. You should also allow for tips to the
hotel staff, plus souvenirs, and emergency funds in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Trekking Expenses
On trek, all payments meals, for snacks, drinks, chocolates, biscuits, souvenirs, showers and tipping will
need to be made in rupees - try to carry denomination notes of 5 to 500 rupees for this purpose. Your
leader will advise on actual amounts to carry at the group briefing but do always take a little extra in case
of emergencies.

GETTING EQUIPPED FOR YOUR TREK
Points to consider when making your selection:

1. The Annapurna Ghorepani trek operates in cool mid altitudes and a multi-layer system of clothing is
appropriate for this trip.
2. You have a strict weight restriction of 20 kgs on international flights and a maximum of 15 kgs on
domestic flights and are limited to one kitbag (supplied by our Nepalese trekking partners) whilst
trekking. Be aware that your sleeping bag and duvet jacket have to fit in your kit bag.
3. Your hotel has a storage facility for luggage not required on trek. Leave any items not required on trek
in your suitcase/travel bag which can be safely stored in the hotel.
4. You may wish to leave old clothing (t-shirts, socks, old jumpers, running shoes etc.) in Nepal at the
end of the trek. Consider donating these items to your porters.

TREKKING GEAR PROVIDED BY OUR NEPALESE TREKKING PARTNERS
We supply a kitbag, down jacket, high quality sleeping bag and sheet liner. Please indicate before
departure if you are extra large or extra small size. The gear is supplied to you in Kathmandu, one day
prior to your trek departure, for the duration of the trek only.
Sleeping Bag: We provide a high quality a sleeping bag in the lodges as only a mattress and pillow are
provided in the rooms.

Sheet Liner: An inner sheet for the sleeping bag for extra warmth and your personal hygiene. We ask
that you always use the sleeping liner.
Down Jacket: The jacket will mainly be worn around your lodge in the evenings rather than whilst
walking during the day. It is not waterproof therefore ensure you wear a waterproof jacket over the duvet
jacket during any rain or snow.
Kitbag: A full-length zippered bag for easy stowing of personal gear and for easy carrying by porters. All
your clothing and equipment taken on trek should be kept in this bag, other than those required during
the trekking day, which you carry in your daypack.
You will be required to pay, in Kathmandu, for any lost or damaged equipment.
PERSONAL CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT
The following notes are a guideline for your selection. We suggest you visit one of the specialist outdoor
shops and discuss requirements for your trip. We have indicated in red items that can be bought in
Kathmandu quiet easily. Some things such as trekking poles and snow gaiters etc. are best bought in
Kathmandu if you are unlikely to use them again.

Suitcase or Travel Bag/Pack
For taking your clothing and equipment to the overseas joining point: your bag should be strong and
practical. Your suitcase/travel bag is also used to store clothing and personal items not required whilst
you are away trekking. This will be put in the hotel storeroom until your return. Remember to mark your
surname clearly on all luggage.
Small Padlocks
We suggest you bring two small padlocks to secure your kitbag whilst trekking and for luggage left in the
hotel.
Money Belt
It is important to keep your money, passport, airline tickets and the like in a safe place when you are
travelling. On arrival in Nepal you will be able to place most of these items in safe-deposit boxes at the
hotel. Otherwise, a pouch hung round your neck or a money belt is recommended. It is also a good idea
to photocopy the first few pages of your passport and keep them in a money belt.
Pens
Bring a few pens. They are required for filling in airport documentation and permit applications, and are
useful on trek for marking your trekking map and writing a diary.

Trekking Boots
Essential. Remember it is your feet that will be doing all the work. Your boots will be the most important
item of your trekking equipment. We recommend a good quality boot with a cleated sole. Boots should
be sturdy enough to tackle rough terrain. A lightweight leather and/or Goretex/Cordura styles are
excellent.

Footwear – after the trekking day
A pair of running shoes or crocs etc, can be will be very useful for wearing around the lodge. During the
day, boots and feet may get damp from perspiration, and it is a good idea, when you arrive at your
overnight stop, to take off your boots and damp socks, dry your feet and put on dry socks and other
shoes. If you don't do this at the higher altitudes, your feet can very quickly become uncomfortably cold.

Socks
We recommend you bring along 3 or 4 pairs of thick trekking socks. Change and wash them frequently
(lunch stops at lower altitudes are a good time). Carry talc or foot powder, and use it liberally. Many
people find that wearing two pairs of socks increases foot comfort – a thin inner sock, and thicker outer
sock. Experiment yourself during your "training" walks.

T-Shirts – Can be bought in Kathmandu
For lower altitudes and on warm days a baggy cotton T-shirt or cotton shirt is fine but the latest style of
man made fibre trekking T-shirts are best as they dry very quickly.

Thermal Underwear – Can be bought in Kathmandu
On this trek synthetic polypropylene long johns are only required during the months of December,
January and February. However they are also useful for night wear. A long sleeved top is essential.
Synthetic thermal garments are designed to transfer chilling perspiration away from the skin and will
keep you warmer and more comfortable than wool or, especially, cotton clothing. Many people prefer the
comfort of thermals made from Merino wool. These items cost a little more but are more comfortable
next to the skin, wick away the moisture and have a natural anti-microbial barrier – so they stay fresher,
for longer. You can go days trekking without laundering merino base layers.

PolarTec Shirts and Jackets
A combination of a lightweight 'mid-layer' is the best option. Consider a PolarTec 100 or a light woollen
shirt worn under a PolarTec 200 or 300 jacket with a full-length zip. It is best to work on a layer system,
so avoid thick, heavy wool shirts and sweaters that will also be difficult to dry out if they get wet.
Shorts/Lightweight Trousers/ Windproof Trousers – Can be bought in Kathmandu
Shorts will be a good option for a few days at lower altitudes. Lightweight trekking pants are all that is
required for most of the year. However, during the months of Dec, Jan and Feb specialist trekking
trousers in a stretch and windproof material are the best option and when used with thermal underwear
will keep you warm at higher altitudes. Take one pair of each.
Waterproof/Windproof Jacket Can be bought in Kathmandu
A good quality waterproof jacket is essential and your first line of defence against the elements (wind,
rain and snow). A Gore-Tex style jacket with hood is required. Ensure that it has a full-length zip.
Waterproof/Windproof Over Trousers. Can be bought in Kathmandu
Essential for protection from wind and rain.
Ski Hat
Also essential A large amount of body heat is lost through your head and ears. Hats are available in a
variety of materials from wool, wool/synthetic mix and Polar Tec.

Sun Hat
It is very important to protect the face, ears and neck, as sunburn can be a problem at all altitudes. This
risk can still be considerable even on cloudy days. A wide-brimmed sunhat with chin-strap (it may
get windy) or a "foreign legion" style peak cap are recommended. Ordinary, baseball-style, peak caps
provide no protection for the ears or neck, but when used with a large cotton scarf make an ideal
combination for wind, sun and dust protection.

Neck Scarf/Buff
The tubular neck/headscarf’s sold as Buff’s are perfect. A thin, cotton neck scarf serves the dual
purpose of protecting the exposed neck from the sun, and when soaked in water, cools the warm walker.
For higher altitudes, a PolarTec/woollen scarf can be useful.

Gloves
A pair of lightweight thermal gloves is recommended.
Daypack/Rucksack
You will need a day pack/rucksack to carry your daily trekking requirements. Ensure it will be sufficiently
large enough for your daily needs, for you will not usually have access to your main kit bag and its
contents during the day. At times you will need to carry your rain jacket and over-trousers, warm
clothing, water bottle, camera equipment, and other personal effects. You should consider a daypack of
at least 30 or 40 litre capacity.

Headtorch
A headtorch is a useful item.
Water Bottle
This is essential - for carrying drinking water, (and it can be most useful as a hot water bottle at night!). A
sturdy bottle with a good seal is most important. The best available water bottles are the Sigg aluminium
and the Nalgene brand names. We recommend you bring a one-litre capacity bottle.
Walking Poles -– Can be bought in Kathmandu
Purpose-built walking poles are a very useful addition to your equipment list. They are particularly useful
for assistance in going up and down hill and take considerable weight off your legs and knees, in
particular.

Sun Protection
Block-out cream and lip-salve are recommended, particularly at higher altitudes.

Waterproof Bags
Pack your clothes, sleeping bag, down jacket, etc. in waterproof bags inside your kitbag/day pack.
Trekking shops sell bags in various sizes designed for outdoor use.
Packing cells
These are small, ussually square shaped bags and are very useful for sorting out your clothing and other
pieces of equipment. These are available at all good gear shops and come in a range of sizes. The use
of these makes accessing and organising your clothing and personal items a breeze.

Plastic Containers
For keeping squashable items, such as toothpaste or containers of shampoo!

Penknife
Can be useful sometimes, especially ones with small scissors and tweezers. Remember not to carry in
your cabin luggage on planes.

Other Useful Items
Ear plugs, these are highly recommended in case your room mate snores, or a village dog barks all
night!

Personal Clothing and Other Items - Kathmandu
For Kathmandu informal clothing is all that is required. Light clothing is usually all that will be required for
most of the year.

Clothing and Equipment Check-list
The items mentioned in this check-list are for your guidance only. Be aware that some Trip Notes,
especially for climbing and high altitude trips, contain some specific additional requirements.

Supplied by our Nepalese Trekking Partners
Kit bag
High quality sleeping bag
Inner sheet
Duvet Jacket
To get there
Sturdy suitcase or frameless pack
Small padlocks
Money-and-document pouch
Pens
Clothing for cities
Trousers/jeans/shirts
Casual shoes
Socks/underwear
Pullover or light jacket

Documentation
Document pouch
Passport
Airline Tickets
Cash
Vaccination book
Passport photos x 6 – one is required for visa upon arrival.
Insurance policy
(Good idea to make several photocopy sets of passport, airline ticket, insurance policy etc) Or scan
these documents and send to your Hotmail/Gmail address – so they can be accessed if originals are
lost).
Toiletries
Block-out sun screen/ and lip salve
Small trekking style towel
Biodegradable soap/soap box
Biodegradable shampoo - small
Shaving kit
Moisturiser
Toothbrush/container/paste
Comb/brush
Biodegradable laundry soap
Toilet paper - Can be bought in Kathmandu
Lighter/matches to burn toilet paper

Clothing and Personal Effects for the trek
Walking boots
Spare laces/waterproofing
Socks
Jogging shoes / Crocs/Thongs for use in the lodge.
Thermal underwear- Can be bought in Kathmandu
T-shirts or light cotton shirts- Can be bought in Kathmandu
Shirts
Underwear
Shorts
PolarTec jacket
Walking trousers
Sun hat and neck scarf Can be bought in Kathmandu
Gloves or mittens
PolarTec mid-wear top/shirt or wool shirt
Polartec ski hat
Wind-proof/water-proof over trousers Can be bought in Kathmandu
Plastic container(s) for "squashables"

Equipment on trek
Rucksack/daypack 30 to 40 litre size
Thermarest (optional for extra comfort)
Torch/Headtorch/batteries
Sun glasses, with neck strap
Water bottle (1 litre minimum)
Penknife
Waterproof bags - of varying sizes.

Worth considering
Small binoculars
Sewing kit
Glucose-based sweets/nuts/chocolates, etc.
Scarf or dust mask
Diary & reading material
A small travel alarm clock for cities
Small pillow or pillow cover
Ear plugs
Walking sticks - Can be bought in Kathmandu
Photographic Equipment
Camera, lens, cleaners, memory cards and charger (with adapter – two round pin, ‘European’ style)
Spare batteries – many lodges will allow you to charge camera batteries overnight for a small fee.

THE TREKKING TEAM
The Trek Leader
A trek leader will accompany you on trek and will be on hand in Kathmandu. His main function is to look
after your welfare. Our leaders are all experienced trekkers chosen not only for their knowledge of the
Himalaya, but perhaps more importantly, for their "people skills". They are there to ensure you have a
safe, informed and enjoyable trek. All our current leaders hold internationally recognised first-aid
certificates.
Porters
Our porters have enjoyed many years working with our trekking guests. Locally based near the starting
point of our treks, they are responsible for the carrying your trek packs and any additional equipment
and food. This is a tough job but one always done with a smile. All our porters are supplied with
additional equipment and clothing by our Nepalese Trekking partners to ensure they are adequately
protected on our treks.

HELICOPTER EVACUATION
Helicopter evacuations have occasionally been required in an emergency. It is re-assuring to know that
this back-up is available. As previously indicated, such evacuations are at the cost of the passenger
evacuated. The cost is typically US3,000 to $5,000 depending on location, including service charges. It
is for this reason that adequate insurance must be held by all participants on our treks. If an evacuation
is effected, you will be invoiced and payment must be effected before departure, either by credit
card or by reimbursement through your insurance company.

We will supply to the passenger all necessary copy invoices and supporting statements and
documentation to permit the passenger to lodge their claim with their insurance company.

CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
Courtesy
Remember you are a guest in Nepal. Please show the normal manners you would expect from someone
visiting your home. Do not pat people on the head, or point your feet at anyone.

Language
Misunderstandings may occur due to language problems. Do not get agitated. Remember that most
Himalayan peoples will probably speak more English than you do their language. Your leader and
guides are there to help you. Lonely Planet produce a very useful language phrase-book. Learn a few
words and make communication fun.

Photography
Ask first if you wish to take someone's photo. You are unlikely to be refused, but in some cases, you
may be. In which case, accept the situation. In the main tourist centres, sadhus (holymen), snake
charmers and the like may require payment of a few rupees in return for a photo opportunity.
Entering Households and Monasteries
Commonsense is the rule. If you wish to enter, ask politely first. In nearly every case you will be invited
in. In a monastery you may be asked to make a donation. You should always remove your footwear
before going into a temple or monastery.
Donations
It is not uncommon to be asked to help support a local school through a small group donation. This
method of lending a helping hand is often the most constructive way of doing so.

THE ENVIRONMENT
Think carefully about what you bring to the Himalaya
Remember that most packaging, can be disposed of prior to your departure from home. Please take
back home used batteries and any other rubbish that you generate on the trek. Try and cut down on
items that may eventually end up as waste. For instance, do not bring disposable towels on trek unless
you are prepared to carry them back home for disposal.
PERSONAL PREPARATION
Physical Condition
Participants who have a good outdoor background or previous Himalayan trekking experience will enjoy
the Annapurna Sanctuary treki. For those who have not been to the Himalaya before, we suggest a
programme of day walks or weekend walks for a month or so before you depart. This is particularly
important if you are buying new boots.
TIPPING PRACTICES
Tipping can cause all manner of confusion and embarrassment. We have included a few guidelines here
for your reference. Remember tipping is optional. Tipping, while not expected, has become an
accepted part of tourism in the Himalaya.
In Kathmandu
The bellboys at hotels will appreciate a small tip (100rps) for carrying your bags. A service charge is
levied in most restaurants so there is no need to tip. There is also no need to tip Taxi drivers.
Your Trekking Crew
We suggest you allow a minimum of US$5 per day as a tip for the trekking crew. At the end of the trek
the trek leader will collect and distribute monies to all members of the trekking team. At the same time if
you have any items of clothing, pens, etc. that you do not wish to take home, your guides and porters
will be very happy to receive such items.
GENERAL INFORMATION

Time Zone
Nepal is 4-5 hours hours behind east coast Australia (depending on daylight saving time in Australia)

Language
English is widely spoken throughout Nepal. The official language of Nepal is Nepali. It is similar to Hindi,
which is spoken widely in India.
Religion
80% of the population are Hindu; the remainder are mainly Buddhist. Travellers to Nepal should dress
modestly, particularly when visiting religious areas.
Local Holidays
Apart from the numerous public holidays, Saturday is the only day of the week when government offices
and banks close. Most tourist shops and restaurants are open on Saturdays. Hours of opening vary but
some shops stay open as late as 10 pm.
Festivals
In Nepal festivals occur almost daily! It would be rare to visit Kathmandu without there being a festival of
some description. The Nepalese New Year occurs on April 13 every year and is associated with
celebrations, particularly in Kathmandu. Nepalese festivals are always colourful and fascinating events.


For enquiries and bookings contact: Active Travel
Sydney Office:
Level 1, 447 Kent Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Email: [email protected]
Canberra Office:
First Floor, Garema Centre, Canberra ACT 2601 Tel: (02) 6249 6122
Website: www.activetravel.com.au

This trip note was updated February 2013. (RC)

Source: http://acac6262.staging-zeus.netregistry.net/cmsAdmin/uploads/Active-Travel-Annapurna-Ghorepani-Trek_2013_final.pdf